By Administrator Cincinnati, Ohio. The Queen City. Home to baseball, brewing history, and, increasingly, a food scene that’s making waves. For years, when people thought of Cincinnati cuisine, they thought of one thing: chili. While Cincinnati-style chili certainly holds a special place in the city’s culinary heart, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Today, Cincinnati boasts a diverse and delicious food scene that’s drawing attention from across the nation. From award-winning fine dining to beloved neighborhood haunts, the city offers a culinary experience for every taste and budget. This guide will take you on a delectable journey through the best food in Cincinnati, Ohio, exploring classic dishes, exciting neighborhoods, and a variety of cuisines that will leave you wanting more. So, loosen your belt, grab your fork, and get ready to discover the good eats that await you in the Queen City.
Cincinnati Classics & Must-Try Dishes
Before diving into the diverse culinary landscape, it’s essential to experience Cincinnati’s iconic dishes. These are the flavors that define the city and offer a unique taste of local history.
First and foremost, there’s Cincinnati chili. This isn’t your Texas-style chili. Cincinnati chili is a unique, Greek-inspired concoction featuring a flavorful blend of ground beef, spices (cinnamon, chocolate, and cloves often make an appearance), and served over spaghetti. It might sound strange, but trust us, it works. The most famous purveyor of this regional delicacy is Skyline Chili, a true Cincinnati institution. You can’t visit Cincinnati without trying Skyline. But don’t stop there! Other notable chili parlors like Gold Star Chili and Empress Chili offer their own variations on this iconic dish. When ordering, be sure to specify your “way.” A three-way is chili over spaghetti topped with cheddar cheese. A four-way adds onions or beans, and a five-way includes both. And don’t forget the oyster crackers! They’re essential for scooping up every last bit of flavorful chili.
Next up is goetta. Pronounced “get-uh,” this is another uniquely Cincinnati creation. Goetta is a German-inspired breakfast sausage made with ground meat (typically pork or pork and beef), steel-cut oats, and spices. It’s often described as a cross between sausage and scrapple. Goetta is a staple on many Cincinnati breakfast menus, and you can also find it at local butchers and even some grocery stores. The best way to enjoy goetta is fried until crispy and served alongside eggs, or on a sandwich with cheese. Its savory, slightly salty flavor is the perfect way to start your day.
No culinary tour of Cincinnati would be complete without a visit to Graeter’s Ice Cream. Graeter’s is a local ice cream chain renowned for its rich, creamy ice cream made using a unique French Pot process. This process, which involves freezing the ice cream in small batches, results in an incredibly dense and flavorful product. While Graeter’s offers a variety of classic flavors, they’re best known for their signature chocolate chip flavors. Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip is a perennial favorite, featuring melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chips in a tangy black raspberry ice cream. Buckeye Blitz, with its peanut butter swirl and chocolate chunks, is another must-try. Graeter’s has been a Cincinnati institution for over a century, and its commitment to quality and tradition makes it a true local treasure.
Finally, no discussion of good food in Cincinnati is complete without mentioning Montgomery Inn ribs. These aren’t just ribs; they are a Cincinnati experience. Montgomery Inn ribs are famous for their tender meat, smoky flavor, and signature barbecue sauce. The sauce, a sweet and tangy blend of tomatoes, vinegar, and spices, is what truly sets these ribs apart. Whether you’re dining at the flagship Montgomery Inn Boathouse overlooking the Ohio River or grabbing a takeout order to enjoy at home, Montgomery Inn ribs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Neighborhood Spotlights: Good Food by Area
Cincinnati’s culinary scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods, each offering its unique flavors and ambiance. Exploring these neighborhoods is a delicious way to experience the city’s culture.
Over-the-Rhine, often referred to as OTR, is a vibrant and historic neighborhood that has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once a struggling area, OTR is now a thriving hub of restaurants, bars, and boutiques. Its beautifully preserved architecture and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for food lovers. For a fine dining experience, Boca offers an exquisite tasting menu that showcases the best of modern American cuisine. Sotto, located in the basement of Boca, serves up authentic Italian dishes in a cozy and intimate setting. If you’re looking for something more trendy and hip, check out Pepp and Dolores for delicious and affordable pasta dishes, or Please, known for its innovative and globally inspired cuisine. For a more casual experience, head to Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market, where you’ll find a wide variety of vendors selling everything from gourmet cheeses to freshly baked bread. The Eagle OTR is a popular spot for fried chicken and Southern comfort food.
Downtown Cincinnati offers a mix of business lunches, upscale dining, and quick bites. During the day, you’ll find plenty of cafes and food trucks catering to the office crowd. In the evening, the downtown area comes alive with steakhouses and fine dining restaurants. Jeff Ruby’s is a Cincinnati institution known for its premium steaks, seafood, and lively atmosphere. Orchids at Palm Court, located in the historic Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on modern American cuisine.
Mount Adams, perched atop a hill overlooking the city, boasts a charming atmosphere and stunning views. The Celestial Steakhouse offers fine dining with panoramic views of the Cincinnati skyline. The Blind Pig is a cozy pub with a great selection of beers and a relaxed atmosphere. Mount Adams is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or a casual night out with friends.
Northside has an artsy and unique vibe. Here, you will find Little Spoon, serving amazing sandwiches and salads. Melt is the perfect place to grab a gourmet grilled cheese.
While these neighborhoods offer a great starting point, the culinary exploration shouldn’t stop there. Hyde Park is known for its upscale dining options, while Oakley offers a trendy mix of restaurants and bars. Anderson Township provides a more family-friendly atmosphere, and Mariemont offers a quaint selection of eateries in a charming village setting.
Cuisine Focus: Exploring Different Flavors
Cincinnati’s diverse population has contributed to a vibrant culinary scene that encompasses a wide range of cuisines.
For Italian cuisine, Sotto and Pepp and Dolores in OTR are excellent choices, offering authentic pasta dishes and regional specialties. Nicola’s, located downtown, is another popular spot for Italian fine dining. These restaurants showcase the best of Italian flavors, from classic pasta dishes to innovative seafood creations.
The city also boasts a thriving Asian food scene, with options ranging from Vietnamese pho to Japanese sushi. Mei, located downtown, offers a sophisticated take on Asian cuisine, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Quan Hapa, in OTR, serves up delicious ramen and other Asian-inspired dishes. Branch, in East Walnut Hills, offers a creative menu with influences from across Asia.
American cuisine, in its many forms, is also well-represented in Cincinnati. The Eagle OTR is a must-visit for fried chicken and Southern comfort food. Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey, with multiple locations, offers delicious biscuit sandwiches and other Southern-inspired dishes. Senate, known for its gourmet hot dogs and creative toppings, is a local favorite. These restaurants emphasize farm-to-table ingredients and innovative takes on classic American dishes.
Cincinnati is also home to a growing number of Mexican and Latin American restaurants. Mazunte Taqueria, with multiple locations, serves up authentic Mexican street food. Taqueria San Marcos, known for its delicious tacos and friendly atmosphere, is a local gem.
Budget-Friendly Bites
Good food doesn’t have to break the bank. Cincinnati offers plenty of options for delicious meals at affordable prices.
Findlay Market is a treasure trove of budget-friendly eats. From fresh produce to gourmet cheeses to prepared foods, you’ll find a wide variety of options to suit every taste and budget. Grab a sandwich from one of the many vendors, or sample a variety of snacks and treats.
Cincinnati also has a thriving food truck scene, with trucks offering everything from tacos to gourmet burgers to artisanal ice cream. Food trucks are a great way to try new and exciting dishes without spending a fortune. Check social media to find out where your favorite food trucks are parked.
Many restaurants in Cincinnati offer happy hour deals and food specials. These deals are a great way to sample a variety of dishes at a discounted price. Look for restaurants with happy hour menus that include appetizers, small plates, and drink specials.
Beyond the well-known spots, many hidden gems and local favorites offer delicious food at reasonable prices. Explore different neighborhoods and ask locals for recommendations. You’re sure to discover some great hole-in-the-wall restaurants and casual eateries that offer incredible value.
Something Sweet: Desserts & Bakeries
After a satisfying meal, it’s time for something sweet. Cincinnati offers a tempting array of desserts and bakeries to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Graeter’s Ice Cream, as mentioned earlier, is a must-try for its rich, creamy ice cream and unique French Pot process. Be sure to try their signature chocolate chip flavors.
Holtman’s Donuts is a local chain known for its delicious and creative donuts. From classic glazed donuts to over-the-top creations, Holtman’s has something for everyone. The Sweet Tooth Fairy offers a delightful selection of cupcakes, cookies, and other sweet treats. The BonBonerie is a charming bakery known for its delicate pastries and elegant cakes.
Beyond the Food: Drinks & Breweries
Cincinnati has a rich brewing history, dating back to the 19th century. Today, the city is experiencing a craft beer renaissance, with numerous local breweries producing a wide variety of beers.
Rhinegeist, located in a historic brewery building in OTR, is one of Cincinnati’s most popular breweries. MadTree Brewing, located in Oakley, offers a wide selection of beers and a spacious taproom. Fifty West Brewing, located on the west side of Cincinnati, is known for its outdoor beer garden and a variety of craft beers. Many of these breweries also offer delicious food menus, making them the perfect place to enjoy a meal and a beer.
For those who prefer cocktails, Cincinnati has a growing number of cocktail bars offering creative drinks and stylish atmospheres. Explore the city’s cocktail scene and discover your favorite mixology spot.
Tips for Navigating Cincinnati’s Food Scene
Getting around the city is relatively easy, with options including driving, public transportation, and ride-sharing services. Parking can be challenging in some areas, especially downtown and OTR, so be sure to plan ahead.
Reservations are recommended at many of Cincinnati’s more popular restaurants, especially on weekends. Call ahead or book online to ensure you get a table.
Cincinnati hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, including food festivals, farmers’ markets, and culinary competitions. Check local event listings to find out what’s happening during your visit.
Dietary restrictions are increasingly accommodated at Cincinnati restaurants. Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Be sure to check the menu or ask your server about available options.
Conclusion
Cincinnati’s food scene is a delightful surprise, showcasing a blend of classic regional dishes and diverse culinary influences. From the iconic Cincinnati chili to the innovative creations of local chefs, the city offers a culinary experience for every palate. Exploring Cincinnati’s neighborhoods and sampling its diverse cuisines is a delicious way to experience the city’s culture and history. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Cincinnati’s food scene is constantly evolving, so come hungry and be prepared for a delicious adventure! You are sure to discover good food in Cincinnati Ohio.
